125
1961 BMW R69 S
No reserve
Estimation:
€18,000 - €22,000
Sold :
€11,920

Lot details

French title in progress
Cadre n° 655518 Moteur n° 655518
Frame No 655518 Engine No 655518

- Sought-after model

- Rare large-capacity Heinrich tank

- Well-preserved condition

 - No reserve


Faced with competition from English motorcycles that have had the upper hand in the 1950s and 1960s, BMW responded with the R69 S of which its 600 cc 42 hp twin-cylinder engine from the R60 enabled it to forge a reputation across the Atlantic as one of the first motorcycles to exceed 100 miles/hour (160 km/h). In reality, it did even better but its qualities also included reliability and robustness that its British rivals lacked. True to the Earles fork with an advanced wheel, it included a hydraulic steering damper and thanks to its limited production (around 2,900 examples), it is indeed a rare and sought-after motorcycle today.

 

Purchased in 2021 by our collector, this BMW R69 S is characterised by a large-capacity tank, replacing the original one which could only contain 17 litres. Two craftsmen in particular were able to offer this option containing 40 litres, Karl Heinrich and Ernst Hoske. It is the former who was responsible for the tank of this motorcycle, with the sides which still have their original grip. Apart from this equipment which combines practicality and pleasure, as well as giving the motorcycle a more modern style, this R69 S is faithful to the original and is here presented in a well-preserved condition, with a mileage of 64,290 km. A rare opportunity to acquire a particular version of this BMW highly sought-after by enthusiasts. 




Please note the French title is in process and will be delivered as soon as possible after the sale to the buyer.  

 


Photos © G. Rizotto


Contacts

Anne Claire MANDINE
Auctioneer
Tel. +33 1 42 99 20 73
acmandine@artcurial.com
Anne-Claire MANDINE
Sale Administrator
Tel. +33 1 42 99 20 73
motorcars@artcurial.com

Absentee bids & telephone bids

Kristina Vrzests
Tel. +33 1 42 99 20 51
bids@artcurial.com

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